How to Open a POL File

POL is a file format used in Windows 7 by an application called the Group Policy Object Editor. This application allows you to change the permissions given to user accounts on your computer, and saves certain registry entries within POL files. However, you cannot use the Group Policy Object Editor to view the registry entries contained within POL files. Instead, you can open POL files using third-party applications such as Registry.Pol Viewer and Registry Workshop.

Instructions

1. Registry.Pol Viewer

   • 1
     Download Registry.Pol Viewer from GPOGuy.com.
   • 2
     Right-click the downloaded ZIP file and choose “Extract All.”
   • 3
     Enter the extracted folder and double-click the “polviewer.exe” file to open the Registry.Pol Viewer Utility.
   • 4
     Select the POL file that you want to open using the “Browse” button.
   • 5
     Click “Open.” You will now see the contents inside the POL file listed under the “Registry Key,” “Registry Value,” “Value Type” and “Date” sections.

   Registry Workshop

   • 1
     Download and install Registry Workshop.
   • 2
     Open Registry Workshop by clicking “Start,” “All Programs” and “Registry Workshop.”
   • 3
     Click “Open” and browse to the location of the POL file.
   • 4
     Select the POL file and click “Open” to view its contents.